Japan-United States of America Relations

In recent years, there have been many disruption cases by pointing laser and flying kites and balloons against US forces and JSDF aircraft around airfields such as Atsugi airfield and Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. Pointing laser and flying kites and balloons against aircraft during flight operations are extremely dangerous and malicious acts that may lead to the obstruction of pilot’s operation, which could cause a major disaster such as a plane crash impacting the neighbouring communities. In order to prevent unforeseen incidents and to ensure the safety of the community and flight operation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs in close cooperation with the relevant Ministries and with the support of the relevant municipalities is informing the danger of such acts to the local residents such as through distribution of posters (PDF) , and is asking for their cooperation on the notification of such acts to the police.